Homemade Beef Bouillon

👇 Watch the step-by-step cooking video at the bottom of the recipe!

Making your own Homemade Beef Bouillon is a game-changer for soups, stews, sauces, and gravies. Unlike store-bought cubes or powders, homemade bouillon is free from preservatives and full of rich, natural flavors. With a few simple ingredients and slow cooking, you can create a concentrated, savory broth that enhances any dish.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds (900g) beef bones (marrow bones, neck bones, or oxtail)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• Optional herbs: thyme, parsley, rosemary
• 6–8 cups water

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Roast the Bones (Optional but Recommended)

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place beef bones on a baking sheet and roast for 30–40 minutes until browned.
3. Roasting enhances the flavor of the bouillon.

Step 2: Prepare the Broth

1. In a large stockpot, add roasted bones, chopped onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and herbs.
2. Pour in water to cover the ingredients.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Step 3: Simmer the Bouillon

1. Cover the pot and let simmer for 4–6 hours, occasionally skimming off any foam or impurities.
2. The longer you simmer, the richer and more concentrated the flavor becomes.

Step 4: Strain and Season

1. Remove bones and vegetables, straining the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
2. Season with salt to taste.

Step 5: Store the Bouillon

1. Let the bouillon cool to room temperature.
2. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Optionally, pour into ice cube trays for convenient, single-use portions.

Tips for the Best Homemade Beef Bouillon

• Use a mix of marrow bones and meaty bones for depth of flavor.
• Avoid boiling too aggressively; a gentle simmer yields a clearer, richer broth.
• Add extra herbs and vegetables for a more aromatic bouillon.

This Homemade Beef Bouillon is a versatile and flavorful base that elevates any dish. With natural ingredients and slow cooking, it delivers rich, hearty flavor that store-bought alternatives can’t match.

Recipe video